Frontiers (Jermaine Jackson album)

Frontiers is the tenth studio album by American singer-songwriter [[Jermaine Jackson]], released in 1986 by [[Arista Records]]. The album primarily features a blend of [[Rhythm and blues|R&B]], [[Soul music|soul]], and [[Pop music|pop]] genres, characteristic of the mid-1980s music scene.

Background and Production

Following his commercially successful 1984 album, ''[[Jermaine Jackson (album)|Jermaine Jackson]]'' (also known as ''Dynamite''), and his hit duet with [[Pia Zadora]], "[[When the Rain Begins to Fall]]", ''Frontiers'' continued Jackson's prolific output. The album saw Jackson collaborating with a roster of prominent producers of the era, including [[Michael Omartian]], [[David Foster]], and [[Narada Michael Walden]], alongside Jackson himself. The production style leaned heavily into synthesizers and drum machines, defining the mainstream sound of 1980s pop and R&B.

Musical Style and Themes

Musically, ''Frontiers'' showcased a polished and contemporary sound, indicative of the era's production trends. It incorporated up-tempo dance tracks alongside smooth ballads, often featuring lush arrangements and prominent vocal harmonies. Lyrical themes frequently revolved around love, relationships, and aspirations, delivered with Jackson's distinctive tenor vocals.

Singles

The album spawned the single "[[I Think It's Love]]", which received airplay and charted moderately, becoming a minor hit for Jackson.

Reception

Upon its release, ''Frontiers'' garnered a mixed to positive reception. Critics often noted its strong production values and Jackson's consistent vocal performance. While it did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of his earlier works, it remains a notable entry in his extensive discography, reflecting the evolving sound of R&B and pop during the mid-1980s.